Meet Fr. Philip Johnson: Research Assistant with an Incredible Story

Fr. Philip Johnson is a man with an incredible story. After overcoming Anaplastic Astrocytoma, a terminal illness, Johnson has turned his life in the direction of suicide prevention and awareness. He is a proud graduate of the United States Naval Academy, backed by various Naval Achievements as a Gunnery Officer and Fire Control Officer.

An Incredible Story

Fr. Philip Johnson is a spirited individual who wears numerous hats. One of those hats is that of a United States Naval Academy Graduate, Gunnery Officer and Fire Control Officer. Another is that of a Research Assistant at Hofstra University. A third he dons in the name of Suicide Prevention and Awareness. And finally, perhaps most special of all in Johnson’s incredible story: he wears a mark that proclaims his triumphant victory as a survivor of terminal illness.

Fr. Philip Johnson’s incredible story had only just begun when he received a diagnosis of Anaplastic Astrocytoma: a terminal illness. Despite this diagnosis, Johnson persevered and now, many years after he was told that he would not survive: this advocate is thriving! He now works to spread Suicide Awareness and assist in Prevention efforts by nonprofits. Johnson also shared a public letter discussing why he is firmly against medically assisted suicide. He continues to spread this message of awareness through his volunteer efforts.

Hofstra University

Fr. Philip Johnson is currently a Research Assistant and Academic Researcher at Hofstra University. At this capacity, Johnson works as a Translator of French and other languages in his Foreign Language Studies expertise. Working closely with researchers, Johnson works to preserve and assist in rediscovering history through his translation efforts. Outside of his professional work, Johnson enjoys cheering on college football and baseball games, traveling, hiking and listening to music.